The pledge was moved unanimously, but not all councillors were thrilled about it.

Cr Andrew Guile drew the ire of multicultural community members, later implying refugee policy was not as pertinent as policy designed to support emergency service organisations.

“We all get excited about same sex marriage and refugee policy, but this is the stuff we should be excited about,” he said.

“By filling the gaps for the agencies, we advance our economic development.

“We must make this happen, it is a priority this happens.”

Shoalhaven Multicultural Group co-facilitator Jan Frikken was shocked by his statement.

“I understand that there are mixed feeling of people in the community about becoming the Refugee Welcome Zone but to see Councillor Andrew Guile opposes the inclusive community is rather disappointing,” she said.

Ms Frikken said the Shoalhaven has not been an ideal location for new migrants, and welcomed any positive change that could develop from council’s pledge.

“As for ‘brand new refugees’ we haven’t had a lot of them here,” she said.

“They usually live in our area for a year or two before moving away to a bigger city where they can find better employment opportunities and be close to their community group. 

“We are facing many settlement issues especially housing and employment issues.”

Mayor Amanda Findley and Cr Bob Proudfoot spoke in favour of refugee policy on Tuesday night.

“This is the least we could do,” Cr Proudfoot said.

“When we consider there are people trying to settle in all parts of Europe, fleeing disease, poverty and war, here they are, brave people looking for a new start.

“We are living in the greatest country to offer support.”